But First, (no) Coffee

I️ made the decision to cold turkey cut out coffee after I️ noticed that I️ had progressively become dependent on it and drank the addictive substance nearly everyday (and sometimes more than that).

Since then, I’ve also made a conscious effort to drink more water (a gallon a day), get back to eating healthy, and become more active.

What I’ve Noticed

And all I️ can say is WOW… I️ feel like a new woman! Recently I️ have started “opening” at my job, which entails waking up at 3:45 am, so at first I️ was nervous that I️ would struggle without coffee, but I️ can honestly say that by 12 pm I’ve never felt better. I️ have had more energy than I️ used to while drinking caffeine, and I️ think the reason is that I’ve been relying on food as my energy source, and my body is no longer dependent on caffeine as fuel.

It wasn’t just the caffeine that I️ could see progressively making me feel unhealthy, but all that comes along with a cup of coffee. For a while I️ was ordering a 12 ounce coconut milk latte with a bit of honey… but consuming too much of anything isn’t good, so that much milk (which is lightly sweetened already) takes its tole after a while and even though honey is natural, it still turns into sugar in your body.

I️ clearly noticed that my skin was paying for my bad eating habits and coffee addiction, so that is the main reason I quit drinking it.

What I’m Actively Doing in Pursuit of Health

When tackling any dieting issue, I think the first vital step is to get rid of whatever is not making you feel good, because my biggest tip is always listen to your body. But, along with cutting out a particular thing, I think it’s almost equally important to begin adding in good nutrients that can be incorporated into your diet. Many times it can be very simple and it just requires a clear vision and focus on your overall goal.

For example, since my main goal is having clear skin, I have been consciously trying to eat more healthy fats (coconut oil by the spoonful and avocados), I have been drinking lots of water, and trying my best to take micronutrients in the form of vitamins or powders (like collagen) that can easily be added to smoothies. Also, I’ve been opting for healthy choices with the motivation that they will help my skin. What I mean by that, is I’ve been eating more salads in place of “kind of healthy” meals because I know they are actively healing my body.

The Challenge

So… here’s the part where you can get involved.

I want to challenge every one of you to make a lifestyle change that will bring you more happiness in regards to your health. It can be big or small, physical, emotional or spiritual…. whatever you want. Along with the change you make, I want to encourage you to take notice of all of it’s effects in your life, good or bad, and whether it leads to further improvement (like since I cut out coffee, I also began drinking more water and living healthier). Who’s ready? I’m excited to hear about how you apply this challenge to your life, so please let me know if you decide to take it.